The summer that changed Welsh football
A decade on from Euro 2016, key figures tell BBC Sport Wales the inside story of the summer that changed Welsh football forever.
The summer of 2016 marked a turning point in Welsh football, as the nation qualified for their first Euro tournament in 58 years. Welsh fans took to the streets of Bordeaux, France, on June 11, 2016, to watch their team play their first match against Slovakia. The atmosphere was electric, with the anthem being played for the first time in history at a major tournament.
The team, led by charismatic manager Chris Coleman and featuring stars such as Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, exuded confidence and emotion. Coleman famously told his players to "keep calm, don t act like we re too excited to be here," but the fans couldn't contain their excitement.
Wales' most memorable moment came in their final group game against Russia, where they dominated the match with a breathtaking attacking display. Gareth Bale scored twice, and Neil Taylor added a goal, helping Wales secure their place in the knockout stages. The team's performance in this game showcased their potential and marked the beginning of a new era for Welsh football.
Their journey continued with a thrilling quarter-final match against Belgium, scoring a crucial winning goal and setting the stage for one of the greatest nights in Welsh football history.
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- The summer that changed Welsh football bbc.co.uk
